This is absolutely my favorite way to use leftover mashed potatoes. In fact, I love these so much, I sometimes intentionally make more mashed potatoes than we need for dinner just so I can make these the next day. They’re just SO GOOD! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these gorgeous golden beauties are packed with flavor and smothered in comfort.

Whisk until well combined. It’s okay if there are small lumps of potatoes.

Add just enough oil to a non-stick skillet to about 1/8″ deep. You’ll want just enough oil to allow it to bubble around the edges as these fry. If you’re really adventurous and you’re making these for breakfast, fry a few strips of bacon first, then fry your potato pancakes in the bacon grease. The extra punch of flavor it adds will blow your mind, and if it’s hot enough, they will turn out nice and crispy without being greasy. I promise.

Cook over medium-high heat until both sides are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Drain on paper towels and keep warm until they’re all finished. These make a great side to almost anything, but we love them for breakfast. Piled onto a plate with a little bacon and a soft fried egg? Fuhgeddaboudit.

Make these, and I swear you’ll never look at leftover mashed potatoes the same way again. Now go make your own; these are mine.

I tried them! We totally forgot the bacon step (I was too concerned with getting the potatoes directly into my mouth), but it didn’t matter. These were winner winner chicken dinner! We ate them again for breakfast with the fried egg on top…incredible. I love this recipe because I usually have all of the ingredients on hand. Thanks!

As I read the directives, my instinct was thinking bacon fat to cook the pancakes in…I smiled when you mentioned it as an alternative to oil. Typically I try not to make additional mashed potatoes, buy you’ve changed that now. I’m smitten for potato pancakes Jeanne. Cheers from NorCal!

Potato pancakes are one of my most favorite things in the world. True story. I’ve never once attempted them at home because I hate shredding potatoes by hand. Your recipe calling for leftover mashed potatoes is something I can totally get behind. And I will…very soon!